It’s no secret: Like us, our pets are getting older every day. As our fur babies start to run or fetch slower and our feathered friends stop flying as high or as far, their needs change. One pet parent’s boyfriend really recognized that, and he’s showing up for their Cockatiel in the sweetest way.
A few days ago, @birdholly shared a touching video of Paco the Cockatiel and their partner. Sadly, Paco has arthritis, so he has a harder time flying. Though, their partner solved that problem by helping to simulate the flying experience for Paco. And the fun way he’s giving Paco daily flights should put him in the running for boyfriend of the year!
🐶SIGN UP to get “pawsitivity” delivered right to your inbox with inspiring & entertaining stories about our furry & feathered friends🐾🐾
What a beautiful way to start the day! “Paco loves his morning tours!” writes @birdholly in the video post caption. To explain the scene a little further, the on-screen text tells us, “My partner takes my 30-year-old Cockatiel on flights every day because he has arthritis and can’t fly.”
In the video, you see their daily routine in action. He has Paco perched on his arm, and he’s traveling around the house with this birdie. From the looks of things, Paco is having the best time on his morning tour!
Related: Sweet Shelter Cat Who’s About to Have Her 3rd ‘Homeless’ Christmas Will Have Anyone in Tears
Viewers were delighted that they get to see these two bonding like this. In fact, commenter @ipleadthe_5th even called the way he cares for Paco the “greenest of flags.”
The proof is in the video. @therealturbo170 joked about how much fun they were having and said, “He’s got his own pilot; I’m jealous. LOL.” @theretrogamingdad added, “Look how happy that little Cockatiel looks as he lands.” And @h_banana_1313 said this daily flight was “enrichment at its finest.” Can’t argue with that!
A Great Way To Help an Aging Cockatiel
Some birds have very long lifespans, and commenters were shocked to learn this Cockatiel’s age. TikTok user, @stcphane, replied, “30?! I don’t know anything about birds, but [I] didn’t expect Cockatiels to live so long!” With age comes a greater chance of birds like Cockatiels developing health and mobility issues. That’s why is important to consult your veterinarian in order to make necessary dietary, lifestyle, and other changes.
With Paco, it’s clear he has a village that’s helping to lift him up and helping him find new ways to fly as he gets older. What a lucky bird!
This story was originally published by PetHelpful on Dec 19, 2025, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add PetHelpful as a Preferred Source by clicking here.